I'm disgusting

[blackheartdarksoul]

I'm posting here for traffic.

My house is a pit. Every single room is dirty, all my possessions are old and falling apart. I have a flea problem too.

I'm working so many hours to keep a roof over my families head that when I get home I just sleep.

I can't afford to buy anything, I have £3.40 in the bank to last me until the end of the week.

How can I be proud of my home again? My boyfriend who doesn't live with me has made a remark about my home and I died of embarrassment on the spot.

I don't let anyone in except him because it's that bad.

Why am I so gross?

@HollowTalk I did the online calculation and it says I should be getting £50 a week more than I should be getting. I called tax credits but they insist I get what I'm supposed to. My income hasn't changed in 3 years.

I can get help with my rent but I'm frightened of them saying I've been overpaid which has happened before

Why don't you book a Citizens' Advice appointment and ask them?

Is there somewhere you could be saving money elsewhere, do you think?

Great to hear from you, OP

Do you have a plastic bottle handy? You could try this for your flowers:

So happy for you op

@mightymalties I used an old pint glass

I often use glasses (or old jars...) as vases blackheart. Just came on to say I think you're doing brilliantly and you've inspired me to tackle myine too. And please write that book @mitzik :-)

Op don't worry about it. I think your bf is a dick and needs chucking. I've been in some right grotty places and not said a word. Its not the done thing it's rude and not his place to say anything. I found poundland and charity shops helped a lot and my dad likes to do diy even when it stresses me out. I would ask relatives if you can for stuff for the house for birthdays/Xmas. Free cycle is good and I find stuff in skips like a glass table photo frames and a full length mirror also a table in an alleyway. Primark also has some good bits in the sale their blankets help any space look good. The range has some good bits I got some plastic covered cloth in their fabric section for the tv/coffee table. If you've got a car Facebook groups are good. A tablecloth and some fresh flowers can make most rooms look OK. I normally try and buy carpet cutoffs on the cheap to help spruce up really dirty areas. Also a cottagey vintage look is easier than a modern sleek look. Old mismatching tea cups and saucers look darling served with coffee or tea. Its not secondhand its vintage!

If your kids are teenagers they are old enough to pitch in and help. Get a rota of weekly jobs and split them among the kids - each kid gets their own job(s) that they own and must complete.